There's a Map for That: National Geographic Introduces the Global Action Atlas

May 19, 2010 – Since its inception 112 years ago, National Geographic has become more than the trademark yellow-trimmed magazine filled with compelling stories and images from around the globe. It has evolved into a cable television channel, and a website. And now that website has spawned sub-sites that further promote National Geographic's mission: to inspire people to care about the planet.

Energy efficiency is just one component of National Geographic's Global Action Atlas, an international network that connects people to causes and grassroots projects, and then gives them the chance to volunteer, donate, advocate or simply share information to increase awareness.

The Atlas' goal, according to its website, is to "help individuals find and support local initiatives tackling some of the major challenges that face human societies and natural systems all over the world."

"We have a responsibility and an opportunity to turn inspiration into action," says Allen Carroll, National Geographic chief cartographer. "The Atlas gives people a place to make targeted donations and track the progress. Participating organizations must update project summaries at least once a quarter, so there's a record of progress and ongoing feedback on how donations get invested."

Putting Energy Efficiency on the Map

While the Atlas runs the gamut of social issues, including conservation and humanitarian projects, particular attention is given to energy efficiency as way to care about the planet. Two of the energy efficiency projects spotlighted by the Global Action Atlas were spearheaded by the Alliance:

• Green Schools in Washington, DC accommodates approximately 20 schools in the district and teaches students to conduct energy audits of their schools and homes. The program aims to broaden energy efficiency education and have students carry the message to their communities-at-large. The citywide effect equates to lower energy usage and financial savings from reduced energy bills.
   
• Watergy in South African Schools "helps cities realize significant energy, water and monetary savings through technical and managerial changes in water supply systems." The impact of the Watergy program is immediate. Local consumers see improvements in water service and delivery and they reduce water and energy consumption. Significant financial gains are evident soon after implementation.

Both the DC and South African locations are mapped out on the "Action Map," which now houses more than 285 projects, eight of which are concentrated on energy efficiency. When looking at the global map, supported by Bing Maps, users can hover over the projects to see a thumbnail image along with a brief description of the effort.

The project pages have a "Take Action" button with links to donate funds or tools to help you advocate. For instance, the Green Schools project provides links to download lesson plans. All project pages afford users the ability to promote the project via Facebook .

Donations made to projects and organizations on the Atlas go through the GlobalGiving Foundation, a registered 501(c)3 organization, and are tax deductible.

Though currently in beta form, the Global Action Atlas promises to expand its catalogue of projects, giving worthy causes the world over a chance to benefit from a new era in social technology. The Alliance, too, hopes to expand its involvement in the Global Action Atlas and get more international projects off the ground.